This homemade Jerk Seasoning recipe is a spicy, smoky, sweet, and savory blend that gives any dish island vibes. Mix it up in minutes and keep it on hand in your pantry to use on ALL the things!
This homemade Jerk Seasoning recipe is basically magic dust. Sprinkle it on this, sprinkle it on that, and POOF, your meals are instantly transformed into total awesomeness. While traditional Jamaican jerk chicken is made with a wet rub that includes Scotch bonnet peppers, scallions, and herbs, jerk seasoning gives you much of that same flavor in a shelf-stable seasoning blend you can use easy-peasy. We often make grilled Jerk Shrimp using this bold seasoning blend – we highly recommend!
The Elements of a Perfect Jerk Seasoning
Jerk cooking originated on the island of Jamaica, in the Caribbean. And the best jerk seasoning includes a mix of these key elements:
- Spicy. If your jerk is mild, you’re simply not doing it right! In lieu of fresh Scotch bonnet peppers (which can be hard to find in the States), I use cayenne for the kick.
- Sweet. Jerk also contains a touch of sweetness — because heat is always so good with a side of sweet!
- Savory. Garlic and onion powder create a deeply savory base of flavor for the seasoning.
- Smoky. One of the key elements in traditional jerk cooking is the flavor of smoke from slow-cooking over a flame. I add smoked paprika to this recipe so even if you’re not grilling, you get a hint of that smoky flavor.
- Aromatic and earthy. This is the element that really separates jerk from other seasoning blends. Thyme, allspice, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg add dimension and depth.
What You’ll Need
Hit up your pantry and you’ll likely find most, if not all, of these ingredients. The great thing about mixing up your own batch is that you can control everything that goes into it! Scroll down to the printable recipe card to find the exact ingredient quantities and recipe instructions.
- Cayenne pepper – The heat! You can adjust the amount to your liking.
- Smoked paprika – Provides a smoky depth.
- Garlic powder – For savory goodness without the bite of fresh garlic.
- Onion powder – Instead of the fresh scallions used in jerk rub.
- Ginger – Brings warmth and a touch of zing.
- Brown sugar – You can use light or dark, for that bit of sweetness. It helps give nice caramelization when you’re grilling.
- Salt – I use Morton kosher salt.
- Allspice – Despite its name, this is not a blend of spices; it’s a single spice that has flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth.
- Black pepper – Freshly ground is best for bold flavor.
- Thyme – Thyme adds an herbal, woodsy element to the seasoning.
- Nutmeg – Offers a warm, nutty undertone.
How to Make Jerk Seasoning
Let’s get started! Here’s what you’ll need to do.
- Mix. Whisk all the ingredients together.
- Store. Transfer the seasoning mix to a jar or airtight container, then store in a cool, dry place and use whenever you like.
My Favorite Ways to Use Jerk Seasoning
Here are some of my favorite dishes for using jerk seasoning.
- Fish & seafood. While Jerk Shrimp is my absolute favorite, this seasoning also works well with white fish, such as tilapia or cod. Simply rub the seasoning onto the fish before grilling, baking, or pan-frying. It’s also really nice very lightly sprinkled over Grilled Scallops or Pan-Seared Scallops.
- Chicken. Jerk chicken is a classic dish made with this seasoning, but there are many other ways to use it with chicken. Try marinating chicken in jerk seasoning, lime juice, and olive oil before grilling or baking it, then serve it with Cilantro Lime Rice.
- Pork and steak. This blend pairs well with pork and beef too. Just sprinkle it on, before cooking, like you would do with any other seasoning blend.
- Vegetables. Vegetables can also benefit from the bold flavors of this seasoning; just sub in this seasoning for the simple salt & pepper in this Grilled Vegetables recipe. Jerk seasoning is also really nice with sweet potatoes and winter squash.
- Eggs. For a breakfast with a kick, add a sprinkle of jerk seasoning to your scrambled eggs.
- Rice & beans. Jazz up a budget-friendly classic with some Jamaican flavor.
- Grilled Pineapple. Marinate pineapple in lime juice, oil, and seasoning before grilling.
How to Store
Store jerk seasoning in an airtight container or jar in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. When you start with fresh spices, a seasoning blend can last for a year or two. (If your spices were already past their prime and starting to dull in flavor, it won’t last quite as long!)
More Homemade Seasoning Recipes
Jerk Seasoning
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Morton kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried crushed thyme leaves
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a small bowl and whisk to combine.
- Transfer seasoning mix to a jar with an airtight lid. Store in a cool, dark place for 1-2 years. Use as a dry rub for proteins such as fish and seafood, chicken, steak, and pork – and to season vegetables, rice, and beans. It's also really good sprinkled over eggs!
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